Patrick Willis Draws Inspiration from Matlock

Patrick Willis proved himself to be an old-soul with his post-game activity after the 49ers beat the Texans.

Patrick Willis has missed the last two 49ers victories with a groin injury.

It’s not sitting well with San Francisco’s star linebacker. In fact, Willis shared a secret - what's fueling him to return to action.

Willis couldn’t sleep after the 49ers recent 34-3 win over the Houston Texans. So what did the 28-year-old linebacker do?

He put on an old episode of “Matlock.”

“I can’t go back to sleep,” Willis wrote on his Instagram account with a picture of his television set. “When this show goes off, I just want to get up, go rehab and train so that I can be one of the best in my profession like Ben Matlock.”

Willis was tongue in cheek when he offered the message to his followers on social media.

“I know it’s different,” Willis continued, “but those of you know who knew about Ben Matlock will get it, lol.”

Willis’ old-soul remains evident with his shout out to “Matlock,” a 1980s TV drama with the late Andy Griffith in the lead role of Ben Matlock.

Willis was close to returning to the field against the Texans, but was a game-time decision to be held out of the lineup.

The 49ers linebacker will have another week to rehab so he can continue his dominance as one of the best in his profession, just like Ben Matlock. The 49ers host the Arizona Cardinals this Sunday at Candlestick Park.